Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe

If you’re craving a vibrant, cozy dinner that’s as visually stunning as it is satisfying, you have to try Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers. This all-in-one meal combines tender bell peppers overflowing with a savory beef and rice filling, topped with bubbling cheese and an irresistible touch of smoked paprika. It’s the perfect family-friendly dish—simple enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough for company, and it never fails to disappear fast at the dinner table!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The heart of Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers is really in the straightforward ingredients that magically transform when cooked together. Each one brings a unique flavor, color, or texture, so don’t skip any—you’ll taste the harmony in every bite!

• Extra-virgin Olive Oil: Gives a silky base for sautéing and enriches the filling’s moisture.
• Onion: Diced and sautéed to anchor the dish with sweetness and depth.
• Garlic Cloves: Big flavor in small form—adds a subtle kick and aroma.
• Lean Ground Beef: Provides protein and substance to make each pepper hearty and satisfying.
• Cooked Brown Rice: Makes the filling wholesome and satisfying, plus it absorbs all those saucy juices.
• Diced Tomatoes (one can): Adds brightness and binds the ingredients together with a fresh pop.
• Tomato Paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor for a rich, comforting sauce.
• Dried Oregano: Delivers classic Italian herbiness that infuses the filling with warmth.
• Smoked Paprika: The secret ingredient for a gentle smokiness that sets these apart—don’t skip it if you love depth of flavor.
• Kosher Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing out all the other flavors—taste as you go!
• Large Bell Peppers: Your edible “bowls”—choose different colors for a beautiful presentation.
• Shredded Cheddar Jack Cheese: Melts over the tops for gooey, golden deliciousness.
• Freshly Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle at the end wakes everything up with freshness and color.

How to Make Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers

Step 1: Prep the Peppers and Preheat

Set your oven to 375 F. While it’s heating, take your beautiful bell peppers and slice off the tops, then remove the seeds and cores. Place them cut side up on a baking dish or rimmed tray, so they’re ready to be stuffed with all the good things coming their way.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

In a large pan over medium heat, pour in the olive oil and gently cook your diced onions until they become soft and fragrant—you’re looking for a little sweetness, not browning here. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for about one minute more to unlock its aromatic potential.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

Add the ground beef directly to the pan and start breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Let it cook until it’s completely browned and no pink remains, about 5-6 minutes. This step creates a meaty, savory base for your Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers.

Step 4: Mix in Rice, Tomatoes, and Spices

Stir in the cooked brown rice, canned diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato paste, dried oregano, and smoked paprika. Keep everything moving and allow it to simmer for 4-5 minutes, giving the flavors a chance to blend. Season with salt and pepper, tasting to get it just right for you.

Step 5: Stuff the Peppers and Bake

Spoon generous amounts of the beef and rice mixture into each prepped bell pepper. Pack them in well, but don’t overstuff! Slide the tray into your hot oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, until the peppers have softened but still stand tall and colorful.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Finish Baking

Sprinkle shredded Cheddar Jack cheese over each pepper. Pop them back into the oven for another 5-7 minutes, just until the cheese is gloriously melted and beginning to bubble. Right before serving, sprinkle with chopped parsley for a final touch of color and freshness. Dive in and enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers

Garnishes

These peppers are delicious on their own, but a handful of freshly chopped parsley or cilantro adds that bright, herby finish. You can even add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of red chili flakes if you’re craving more zing.

Side Dishes

Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers are honestly a meal on their own, but pairing them with a crisp green salad, garlicky bread, or a scoop of creamy mashed potatoes makes for a truly abundant plate. These sides help round out the flavors and make dinner feel extra special.

Creative Ways to Present

To turn your Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers into a centerpiece, arrange peppers of varying colors on a large platter and sprinkle with both parsley and extra cheese. Serving family-style lets everyone pick their favorite color, and it looks festive enough for any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftover peppers to an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to four days. They reheat beautifully and make an even tastier lunch the next day as the flavors meld together.

Freezing

Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers are excellent for freezing. Let them cool completely, then wrap each individually or pack side by side in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to three months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat individual peppers in the microwave or pop them back into a 350 F oven, covered loosely with foil, until warmed through (about 15-20 minutes). If you like your cheese extra melty, add a sprinkle more before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Definitely! Both ground turkey and chicken are tasty alternatives if you want a lighter option. Just remember to add a little extra seasoning or a dash of olive oil, since they’re leaner than beef.

What’s the best type of rice to use?

You can use any cooked rice you love—brown rice brings nuttiness and chew, but white rice, jasmine, or even quinoa will work. Just make sure it’s already cooked before mixing into the filling.

Can these be made vegetarian?

Absolutely! For vegetarian Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers, simply swap the ground beef for a plant-based substitute, cooked lentils, or even a mix of chopped mushrooms and black beans.

How do I keep peppers from getting soggy?

To keep your peppers somewhat crisp but fork-tender, avoid overbaking. The filling is already cooked, so you just want the peppers to soften and the cheese to melt without losing their structure.

Can I make these ahead of time?

You can prep the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready, stuff the peppers and bake as directed for an easy, stress-free dinner.

Final Thoughts

There’s something about a tray of Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers bubbling away in the oven that just feels like home. I hope you gather your favorite peppers, fill them up, and enjoy this joyful, flavor-packed dish with people you love. Promise—this is one recipe you’ll want to make on repeat!

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